My job description may include experimenting with makeup, but let me let you in on a little secret: I’ve long been terrified of bright lipstick. I prefer to stay safe, squarely somewhere between neutral-pink and...light-pink. (Yeah, I'm a total rebel...)! Basically, I’m a lipstick wuss. But then I met this vibrant green jacket—and it was just crying out for something a little louder than usual. (BTW, more details on the rest of this outfit to come soon!) So, I took the plunge--and I love the results. If you’re a color-phobe too, here’s the best way to ease into it: Start by loading up your lips with balm. (Actually, everyone should do this, regardless. Bright color + dry, flaky lips = a gross mess.) Next—and this was the biggest lesson for me: Don’t apply the color straight from the tube. (Consider that an advanced move only as it gives you full-force color.) Instead, lightly tap the lipstick as you move it over your lips—barely pressing at all. The combo of the tapping and the thick coat of balm will give you a much less intense color. And there you have it: bright lips for scaredy cats like me.

P.S.: No clue why I look like an extra from Twilight in this shot. I mean, I'm definitely fair-skinned, but usually not this pale...!